Dr Melanie Bish has joined the Board of the Australian Rural Leadership Foundation (ARLF), bringing a career shaped by a clear focus on strengthening regional communities through health, education and locally grounded leadership. Melanie is currently Pro Vice-Chancellor (Regional) at La Trobe University, where she leads regional strategy, partnerships and campus operations across the University’s regional footprint.
Melanie has deep experience in rural health and education, beginning her career in nursing and going on to serve in roles that connect higher education with the health sector to support workforce capability and community outcomes. As an Australian Rural Leadership Program alum (ARLP 29) and a long-time advocate for inclusion and place-based approaches, Melanie brings strong alignment with the ARLF’s purpose and the communities we serve.
Melanie has been kind enough to share her thoughts about her journey and how she sees her role as a new director.
Can you share a bit about your professional background and how it aligns with the ARLF’s mission?
My career has been dedicated to strengthening regional communities through health, education and leadership development. Across roles in rural and regional health and higher education, I have focused on expanding access, equity and opportunities for people living in rural and regional areas. Beginning in clinical nursing, health management and progressing into academic and strategic leadership, my work has centred on building local capability, partnering with communities, and supporting people to thrive in place. This aligns closely with the ARLF’s mission to foster leadership that is place-based, community-driven and deeply grounded in regional Australia’s unique strengths and challenges.
What inspired you to join our board?
As an ARLP Fellow, I am inspired by the ARLF’s commitment to empowering people in regional and rural communities to lead confidently and collaboratively. The organisation’s values resonate strongly with my own belief that sustainable change happens when leadership capacity is grown locally and inclusively. Joining the board offers an opportunity to contribute to an organisation that is shaping the next generation of regional leaders.
What are your key goals as a board member?
To strengthen partnerships across sectors, enhance visibility of the ARLF’s impact, and support the growth of inclusive leadership pathways for diverse communities. I am also committed to strengthening governance, ensuring strategic alignment with emerging regional priorities, and advocating for leadership development as a cornerstone of regional prosperity.
How do you envision contributing to the growth and success of the ARLF?
I hope to contribute by leveraging my experience across education, health, regional industries and community engagement to inform strategic direction and identify new opportunities for collaboration. I see particular value in connecting the ARLF with health, education, industry and government networks across States and Territories. My focus will be on championing programs that expand reach, deepen impact and build long-term resilience in regional communities.
Can you discuss a past experience where you helped drive positive change in an organisation or community?
Throughout my career, I have worked to build regional capability through initiatives that enhance access, reduce inequity, and strengthen community engagement. One example is my work in higher education leadership, where I supported regional campuses to expand participation, build new partnerships and create environments where students from equity cohorts can thrive. These efforts contribute to improved access to tertiary education and strengthened pathways into local workforces – outcomes that echo the ARLF’s emphasis on community-led development.
What do you see as the greatest opportunity for the ARLF and/or leadership in rural, regional and remote Australia in the coming years?
The greatest opportunity lies in harnessing the collective strengths of regional communities to address emerging challenges—whether in climate resilience, workforce development, or digital connectivity. There is enormous potential to grow leaders who can bridge sectors, navigate complexity and drive innovation tailored to local contexts. The ARLF is uniquely positioned to cultivate this form of leadership, and to ensure that regional voices shape national conversations about Australia’s future.
In what ways do you hope to engage with ARLF stakeholders?
I plan to engage through active listening, meaningful collaboration and ongoing dialogue with participants, alumni, partners, and community leaders. I am particularly interested in understanding the diverse experiences of people across rural and remote Australia and ensuring their insights inform governance and program design. My approach will be relational—focused on building trust, strengthening connections and amplifying community perspectives.
What message would you like to share with our alumni and partners?
Your leadership matters profoundly. Every conversation you lead, every project you initiate and every community connection you strengthen contributes to a more vibrant, resilient and equitable regional Australia. The ARLF is proud to walk alongside you as you continue to shape positive change, and we remain committed to providing the support, networks and opportunities that help you thrive.
What leadership qualities do you think are most important for driving positive change in rural, regional, and remote communities?
Leadership in regional Australia requires courage, authenticity and a deep commitment to community. The most impactful leaders listen first, act collaboratively, and value diverse perspectives. They understand the strengths of place, build strong relationships and are willing to innovate even in uncertain environments. Above all, they lead with purpose and compassion – qualities that inspire others and build lasting, community-centred change.
